Is the GS Flint Mica the same Flint Mica that came on the 2004 RX330's? If it is, I agree, it is a nice color.

Unfortunately, no. I was able to compare them on the same lot today in the sunlight. The RX version of Flint Mica is a darker charcoal than the GS--which seems more towards gray, and the RX has more "mica" texture to the metal flake than the finer grain on the GS. The Flint Mica on the LS is, however, the same as on the GS.

My solution--I ordered the GS430 with black exterior, ash interior. None are in the pipeline projections my dealer can see thus far, but since it is a legal color combination according to the new features/colors brochure, there could be some coming a little later. If anyone spots a Black/Ash in the flesh--lemme know!

Unfortunately, no. I was able to compare them on the same lot today in the sunlight. The RX version of Flint Mica is a darker charcoal than the GS--which seems more towards gray, and the RX has more "mica" texture to the metal flake than the finer grain on the GS. The Flint Mica on the LS is, however, the same as on the GS.

Have you checked the color codes of the paint on these 3 models to see if they're the same or different ?

So maybe the basic paint code is indeed the same, but the metallic additives or other aspects are different?

It was pretty obvious that the 2 GS's and the LS all looked exactly the same--all three parked in slightly different areas of the lot--and 1 GS inside the showroom, while the 2 RX's both looked identical to each other, but clearly different from these others. I am very perplexed, so if anyone knows automotive paint well enough to offer any insights, please elucidate!

There are variations of color on the different cars. A good example is Thundercloud Metalic which was available for the 01-02 4Runner, Scion xB, IS300 Sport Design and etc. Toyota will cross code the colors to other vehicles, but they will have variation in batches from the factory. Even my 1C0 Millenium Silver Metallic is found on many other Toyota & Lexus models. For instance my 04 MSM has a tad different shade than my friend's 02 MSM IS300.